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ENVISIONED FUTURE
CORE IDEOLOGY
STAKEHOLDER SERVICE PLEDGE
VisionEradicating Poverty!
Purpose Statement (Mission)We enable and inspire our science learners to take ownership for a
successful future.
Core ValuesExcellence: Getting the best and making it better.
Integrity: Period.
We will be a market leading educational intervention programme
We will support our learners to be successful at their tertiary studies
We will assist learners on their way to become valuable citizens in meaningful positions, ploughing back into their communities
We will employ world class facilitators
We will make a positive difference in the economic and social future of Africa
We will change the educational landscape through innovation
We will maintain the spirit to make the best better
Strategic Intent
3Table of Content
Foreword – TRAC Director – Prof Jan Wium
Introduction – TRAC Executive Director – Debbey Olivier
TRAC Logistics
TRAC Financial Report
TRAC Outcomes
TRAC Highlights
TRAC Success Stories
5
6
7
10
12
19
31
4
TRAC Technology Research Activity Centre SU Stellenbosch University UKZN University of KwaZulu-Natal UL University of Limpopo UJ University of Johannesburg UP University of Pretoria Wits University of the Witwatersrand UCT University of Cape Town TUT Tshwane University of Technology DBE Department of Basic Education CAPS Curriculum Assessment Policy Statement STEM Science, Technology, Engineering and
Mathematics
Glossary
5Foreword - Prof Jan WiumTRAC has been a flagship initiative of the Engineering Faculty at Stellenbosch University for many years. We read year after year of the success of the programme and it
fills us with much pride to associate our University with the TRAC programme. When we look at the annual results, it is difficult to imagine that the programme will be able
to do better the following year. But it happens every time that the year end results are an improvement on the previous year. The TRAC management team and all staff
members must once again be congratulated on their excellent performance in 2018!
The TRAC family is blessed with an excellent management team, who in a very professional manner continues to identify additional needs and services to support
learners in providing them with a better future. They constantly challenge the status quo, seeking ways to improve the programme.
It is heart-warming to see, not only how the academic marks of learners improve as a result of the TRAC intervention, but even more so, how avenues are opened for
learners to create a prosperous future for themselves. The support by TRAC staff in assisting with career guidance, in helping learners to complete application forms
towards tertiary study, and in motivating learners and giving them hope, is a testimony of the many hours that management and staff sacrifice beyond the initial aim of
academic support.
Furthermore, TRAC management and staff at Stellenbosch University provide a “home from home” for the hundred and sixteen new 2019 TRAC first year students at the
University, as well as for those of previous years. The extra hours and time that the dedicated TRAC staff members spend to advise, guide, console, encourage and
support former TRAC learners at the university is an initiative which has grown over the years. This makes a significant difference in the initial experience of students who
are faced by all the challenges of university and campus life.
TRAC is an exemplary programme. The personal testimonies of learners are proof of the contribution that TRAC makes to the lives of these individuals. This support can
only be achieved through excellent leadership and through individuals who put their hearts into what they do. They manage to set the example for all TRAC staff
members who interact daily with the learners.
With this foreword I would like to congratulate TRAC with their success in 2018, but also want to thank each staff member for their dedication and love which help to
change so many lives.
6Introduction - Debbey Olivier
A total of 6 111 learners from 105 secondary schools benefitted from the TRAC intervention in 2018. Of this group, 2 699 learners were in the grade 12 group which completed
the high school leg of their TRAC journey. We are elated that our Grade 12 cohort achieved an 80.1% Physical Science pass rate. A total of 44.2% of the group are pursuing
tertiary studies. The fact that our learners do not give up on their dreams is evident in the fact that 11.9% are focused on registering for tertiary studies once they have
upgraded their Grade 12 results. They are attending lectures to improve their performance. This is testimony that TRAC’s vocational guidance is motivating learners to take
ownership of a successful future.
We are thankful to our financial partners who, in spite of difficult financial circumstances, have been true to their commitment in funding TRAC. We are especially grateful to
the Eskom Foundation for expanding their support of the TRAC program in the Eastern Cape Province. A partnership which started off with a single TRAC point in Humansdorp,
has now grown to a fleet of 6 TRAC points, operating in thirty schools. Through the visionary perspective of the Eskom Foundation, we have been able to successfully negotiate
the implementation of a TRAC Maths pilot program in all 6 TRAC points in the Eastern Cape Province. The program is destined to commence in May of 2019.
Albeit that the TRAC points in Lephalale (Limpopo) and Booysensdal (Mpumalanga) will be closing down at the end of 2018, we are elated that Murray & Roberts are
continuing their funding of the TRAC program, but going forward, in the areas of Musina (Limpopo) and Kuruman (Northern Cape Province). We are glad to report that we
have completed the implementation of a new TRAC point in Hammanskraal (Gauteng), funded by a new partner, Ceramic Industries.
I present this, my 14th TRAC annual report, with pride, but more so, with a deep sense of humility, knowing that we are indeed privileged to be agents of change in our country.
Looking back at 2018, I reflect on a year of change. Evaluating our beneficiary package, we realised that there is a gap in the
market for formalised facilitation of institution and funding applications for tertiary studies. In addition to this need, our learners do
not receive structured, customised career guidance to ensure that they make informed tertiary study choices. It this vein the
TRAC vocational guidance focus was redesigned to address the needs of our learners. We shifted our focus to formally assist our
Grade 12 learners with their tertiary institution applications. We implemented a structured facilitation process to ensure that all
our qualifying students venturing into tertiary studies, do so with funding. We implemented skills testing and performed individual
and group interviews to align the tertiary studies expectations of our learners with their abilities.
8TRAC Areas of Operation
There was no change in the number of TRAC points (and the areas of operations) from 2017 year-end when compared to the end of 2018. Only FIVE TRAC points, funded
by the Eskom Foundation, which commenced its operations either in October of 2017, or January of 2018, were new to the TRAC fleet. Unfortunately TRAC was unable to
secure funding for the Bellville South and Empangeni points. Due to the value of the TRAC program in these areas, a decision was made to fund these TRAC points from
alternative income sources (as indicated on the slide pertaining to the financials).
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Number of TRAC Points per Financial Partner Location of TRAC points
EC 2 1 3 7 7 6 - Eskom Foundation1 - Nordex Acciona Windpower
Humansdorp, East London, Qumbu, Cofimvaba, Uitenhage, Port St. JohnsBedford
GN 6 6 6 3 3 3 - Gautrain Management Agency Alexandra, Soweto, Soshanguve
KZN 5 4 2 2 2 1 – Department of Transport1 – TRAC South Africa
KwaDukuzaEmpangeni
LP 2 2 2 2 2 1 – Murray & Roberts1 - Department of Transport
LephalaleBlouberg
MP 6 6 6 5 52 – Joy Global Foundation
2 – Murray & Roberts1 – Tracker Connect
Ogies, SecundaBooysensdal, Delmas
Ermelo
NC 1 0 0 0 0NW 2 2 1 0 0
WC 3 2 2 2 2 1 – TRAC South Africa1 – Department of Transport
Bellville SouthEersterivier
TOTAL 27 23 22 21 21
Provincial TRAC Point Details
9TRAC Staff Distribution
TOTAL M F ACI W2009 38 23 15 31 7
2010 40 29 11 32 8
2011 39 26 13 32 5
2012 37 23 14 31 5
2013 35 22 13 29 6
2014 35 22 13 30 5
2015 33 25 8 28 5
2016 30 23 7 26 4
2017 29 21 8 24 5
2018 29 21 8 24 5
TRAC is fortunate to draw the services of highly experienced and qualified Physical Science educators. During 2018 Clive Rudzirai, and the brothers Vusi and Nkosilathi
Ndhlovu joined the TRAC staff complement as Learning Facilitators. They worked in Bellville South (Western Cape Province), in Ogies (Mpumalanga), and Qumbu (Eastern
Cape Province) respectively.
TRAC Point Geographical, Financial Partner, and Staff Details
TRAC Staff Gender and Demographic Details
11Although the number of financial partners have decreased in the past
three years, the number of TRAC points have remained fairly stable. The
reason for this is that financial partners have expanded on their support of
the TRAC program.
TRAC commenced 2018 with reserve funds, carried over from 2017, to the
amount of R 17 439 265. During 2018, this balance was augmented with
funding from our financial partners to the total amount of R 8 591 176.The amount of funding received from financial partners is substantially
lower than the donations and sponsorships received in 2017. It needs to
be taken into consideration that the 2017 income was positively skewed,
solely due to a lump sum payment received from the Eskom Foundation
during 2017. The lump sum payment received from the Eskom Foundation
is earmarked to cover operational expenses of five TRAC points for the
period 2018 to 2020.
Additional sources of income amounted to R 1 875 016, which included
items such as interest accrued, sales to internal organisational units, sales
of Vernier sensory equipment to tertiary institutions for academic
purposes, etc. The total income for 2018, therefore, amounted to
R 10 466 193. Expenditure within the same period amounted to
R 14 062 058, which is a 9.6% increase, when compared to 2017. The
increased expenditure can be ascribed mainly to the purchase of
equipment for the five new Eskom Foundation TRAC points, two
combined TRAC workshops at TRAC Head Office, as well as the cost
incurred in supplying each grade 12 learner with a TRAC Physical Science
workbook. The year concluded with a balance of
R 13 979 154. (Detailed financial statements in Addendum) TRAC Income vs Expense Report including Year-End Balance Details
Number of TRAC Financial Partners per Annum
Number of Financial Partners
Number of TRAC Points
2016 13 22
2017 10 21
2018 7 21
13Academic PerformanceNational Pass Rate
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) Physical Science pass rate
increased by 12.7%, from 61.5% to 74.2% over the same period. It
needs to be noted that the DBE national statistics include schools
from ALL quintiles.
Experience has demonstrated that the improvement in the
academic performance is less in new TRAC points. Once a solid
academic foundation has been laid, a larger improvement is
observed. In spite of this phenomenon, and the fact that the TRAC
intervention was operational for less than 12 months in five TRAC
points, the TRAC national pass rate improved to above 80%.
The increase of the TRAC Physical Science pass rate since the start
of the CAPS curriculum is displaying a typical S-curve. At the offset
of the CAPS curriculum, a small increase was recorded (1.2%). The
year-on-year improvement in the performance increased to around
5% over the next three years. As the TRAC pass rate is approaching
the upper limit, the improvement will become smaller. The TRAC
pass rate and that of the DBE should converge over the next few
years. It is, therefore, that the smaller difference between the pass
rates of the DBE and TRAC (5.9%) was expected.
TRAC’s national pass rate has improved every year since the inception of the CAPS curriculum in 2014, increasing from 64.1% in 2014 to a satisfactory 80.1% in 2018. This
constitutes a 16% increase over the past 5 years. We are satisfied to have recorded a 5.1% increase on the 2017 cohort’s pass rate performance.
Physical Science Pass Rate Performance – 2014 to 2018 – TRAC versus DBE
14Academic Performance Provincial Pass Rate
A mere two years ago, the three Gauteng TRAC points (Alexandra,
Soweto and Soshanguve) were lagging the DBE provincial pass rate.
However, these three points have turned the tables to exceed one of
the top performing provinces by 8.9%. In fact, the improvement in
the pass rate since 2016 is 24%.
We are proud of the fact that the two KwaZulu-Natal TRAC points
(KwaDukuza and Empangeni) managed to exceed the KwaZulu-
Natal provincial pass rate by the largest margin, being 15.2%. It is
commendable that these two TRAC points recorded a pass rate of
88.8% in 2018. The improvement in pass rate of these two points
since 2016 was a satisfactory 18.2%.
After a drop in the TRAC Eastern Cape provincial pass rate between
2016 and 2017, there has been an improvement of 4.9%. We are
pleased to report that, in spite of the addition of five new TRAC
points, the combined pass rate of the TRAC points in this province
exceeded the provincial performance by a solid 7.6%.
The TRAC points in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the Western Cape
maintained the lead on their respective DBE provincial counterparts.
In all provinces the TRAC provincial pass rate exceeded the respective DBE provincial pass rates. Ten TRAC points recorded pass rates of over 80%. Five of these were pass
rates of over 90%. We are especially proud of the performance of the TRAC point in Cofimvaba in the Eastern Cape Province, recording a pass rate of 90.1% within the first
year of its operations in this rural community.
Provincial Physical Science Pass Rate Performance – 2016 to 2018
15
In order to present a qualitative academic
performance statistic of TRAC learners, the
performance history of TRAC learners is captured from
grade 11 in 2017, through to their final grade 12 mark
obtained in November of 2018. It is considered
common practice in schools that, at the end of grade
11, certain learners’ Physical Science marks are
artificially increased due to the Department of
Education’s progression policy.
The impact of this policy can be clearly observed in
the very high number of learners obtaining an F-
symbol (between 30 and 39%) for Physical Science at
the end of their grade 11 year. It is in the light of the
above that an increase of the number of learners
obtaining a first-class pass for Physical Science from
grade 11 to the grade 12 final examination, is a true
indication of excellent outputs by TRAC.
Aca
dem
ic P
erfo
rman
ce
Sym
bol D
istrib
utio
n
A total of 19.9% (12.8% in 2015, 14.9% in 2016, and 20.8% in 2017) of the grade 12 TRAC class of 2018 obtained 60% and above for Physical Science (first-
class pass). This statistic not only exceeds the DBE’s 17.6% first-class passes recorded, but demonstrates a substantial increase on the 12.1% of first-class
passes this same group of learners obtained in their final examination in grade 11.
We are satisfied that the number of distinction recorded in the grade 12 examinations annually have been improving, albeit it a small improvement year
on year. The aim going forward is to increase the number of distinctions, but also to ensure that more learners obtain first-class passes for Physical Science.
More than 50% of the DBE class obtained less than 40%, whereas 45.1% of the TRAC class (59.2% in 2015, 56.9% in 2016, and 49.2% in 2017) performed within
this bracket. Although we are satisfied that this group has shrunk over the past five years, it is our goal going forward to make this group even smaller.
Symbol Distribution – 2015 to 2018 cohorts
16
We managed to improve the quality of the Grade 12
learners’ marks by 3.1%. The average percentage
recorded at the end of the Grade 11 year was 41.5%.
The average percentage of this group in the Grade 12
final examination was 44.6%.
The DBE does not publish qualitative statistics other than
symbol distributions, hence the presentation of such
statistics does not reflect comparative data with that of
the DBE.
The DBE progression policy has a substantial impact on
the average percentage performance of the cohorts.
When learner’s marks are inflated to pass them to the
next grade, the average percentage is also inflated.
It is therefore that we are satisfied with the 3.1% increase
in the average percentage between the 2018 cohort’s
Grade 11 and their performance in their final
examination in Grade 12. Comparison 2018 Grade 12 Cohort Average Percentage Performance
17Tertiary Institution Enrolments & Bursaries AwardedWe are focused on our vision of eradicating poverty. It is in this vein
that we assist our learners to venture into studies which are aligned
with their expectations and their abilities.
A total of 44.2% of the 2018 Grade 12 class have registered for
tertiary studies. We are disappointed in the drop from 46.2% which
was reported last year. However, we are satisfied that nearly 12%of the class have decided to improve on their grade 12 results.
These students are either attending lectures at tertiary institutions or
at schools. This is a substantial increase over the previous year
where less than 3% wished to improve their academic results.
The main reason cited for learners upgrading is the weak
Mathematics results. The Mathematics average percentage of the
321 learners who are upgrading was a very low 29.1%. Only 47% of
this group managed to pass their Mathematics. It is evident that the
weak Mathematics performance has prevented our learners from
enrolling for tertiary studies. It is, therefore, that we are excited
about the prospect of commencing the TRAC Maths program in
the Eastern Cape Province. TRAC Bursary & Tertiary Process Statistics
We focused much on facilitating the bursary applications for our learners during 2018. It is therefore satisfying to report that 74.3% of the learners that have taken up tertiary
studies do so with funding. The students that have not obtained funding for their tertiary studies do not qualify due to either their combined household income being above the
NSFAS threshold, or they are studying at an institution which NSFAS does not fund, or they are non-SA residents.
18First-Year Tertiary Registrations per DisciplineA total of 381 (31.9%) learners are registered for tertiary studies in
engineering. It is satisfying that 46 (3.9%) learners are venturing into
education. This is encouraging, as the foundation of a good education
system lies in the quality of the educators. Furthermore, 71 (6.0%)learners obtained acceptance for tertiary studies with a medical focus.
A total of 288 (24.1%) learners are pursuing tertiary studies in other STEM
fields.
Many TRAC learners taking Physical Science as a subject pursue studies
in non-STEM areas of learning. Ultimately the goal of TRAC is to eradicate
poverty. This is accomplished by motivating learners into any relevant
form of tertiary studies which is best suited to the learner’s specific
interests and academic potential—a choice of studies which would
result in a brighter future for TRAC learners. A total of 149 (12.5%)
learners have enrolled for non-STEM degree studies, whilst 178 (14.9%)learners are taking up diploma or certificate studies in non-STEM
directions.
Registration per Discipline Breakdown
Artisanship / Bridging Courses / Learnerships 6.7%
Certificates 26.8%
Diploma 22.1%
Degree 44.4%
Registration per Tertiary Level Breakdown
20TRAC Eskom LaunchThe biggest highlight of 2018 was the launch of the additional FIVE
Eskom TRAC points. The partnership between TRAC and the Eskom
Foundation started in 2016 with the funding of the Humansdorp
TRAC point. The success of the Humansdorp project and the impact
demonstrated in that area led to the expansion of the TRAC
program to 25 more schools throughout the Eastern Cape Province.
This expansion has brought state of the art Physical Science
education to mainly previously disadvantaged learners of this
province.
Asenathi Mandongana (MBChB – UCT), Oyama Comba (MBChB – UCT), and Onodwa
Jantjies (BSc Biological Sciences – Wits) represented their schools at the launch
“Grab the opportunity and run with it. TRAC believes in you and
will support you.” ~ Masixole Jarom (TRAC Alumnus)
This expansion was communicated and
launched in East London on the 24th of
February 2018. This auspicious event was
attended by high level officers from the
Department of Education and Eskom. The
school principals as well as top learners from
the 30 schools in which TRAC is operational
were also in attendance.
21TRAC Lipshitz Combined Vacation SchoolA total of 84 Grade 12 learners, selected from the ten TRAC schools in the
Western Cape, benefited from the Lipshitz funding. The funding was
utilized to conduct a series of vacation schools for these students. The
duration for each vacation school was two weeks, which constituted 10
fully days of intervention. The learners were transported to the central
venue, Malibu High School, for the vacation schools. The attendees were
provided with refreshments during their tea break and lunch.
The aim of the vacation schools was to implement a consolidation
methodology and prepare the learners for their final Grade 12
examinations. The learners were also assisted with applications to different
tertiary institutions and for funding. All the learners in this group passed
their Physical Science final matric examination and the average
percentage mark was 65%. The average percentage of this group at the
offset of the program was 60%. When these learners commenced the
program, only 20 of them obtained either an A- or a B-symbol for Physical
Science. At the end of Grade 12, a total of 34 learners four achieved
these symbols, of which 14 were distinctions.
A total of 69 out of the 84 learners (82%) has taken up tertiary studies at
different institutions of which 59 of them received funding for their tertiary
studies.
22TRAC Staff WorkshopTRAC’s head office is located in the Department of Civil Engineering (Faculty of
Engineering) of the Stellenbosch University. Only 5 of TRAC’s staff complement work from
these offices as their base. The remainder of TRAC staff work off Stellenbosch University
campus. It is, therefore, imperative to create opportunities where staff could be present in
a combined meeting.
A four-day TRAC staff workshop was held at the TRAC head office from 24 to 27 September
2018. The aim of this workshop was to motivate staff as representatives of the TRAC and SU
brand in remote areas, whilst at the same time imparting crucial information to ensure the
growth and smooth operations of TRAC nationally. The most important discussion of the
workshop was to strategise on the upcoming process of applying for NSFAS funding for
nearly 2700 Grade 12 TRAC learners.
The highlight of the workshop was the TRAC@Maties social event which was held on the
afternoon of Heritage Day, the 24th of September. The TRAC Learning Facilitators were able
to spend time with the students who, through their intervention, have become
Maties. Fourty two TRAC@Maties students, some also from the Tygerberg campus, spent
the afternoon with the TRAC staff.
The aim of the social event was two-fold. It was an opportunity for TRAC@Maties students
to connect with one another, even though they come from vastly different areas of our
country. It was, furthermore, a source of motivation for our staff. Not only did the staff
members enjoy seeing the fruits of their labours, by they were able to experience the value
in promoting SU as a preferred tertiary institution for our top TRAC learners.
23TRAC Grade 12 WorkbooksIn many TRAC schools the learners are challenged due to the fact that each learner does not have a text
book. In some schools the situation is truly dire, and no learners have text books. Furthermore, learners
cannot afford to the cost of buying exercise books wherein they would do all their Physical Science work.
It is, therefore, that we decided to provide each Grade 12 TRAC learner with a TRAC workbook. In this
booklet we have summarised the most important examined concepts of the Physical Science curriculum.
This section ensures that each learner has access to a resource covering the content. The second section
of the workbook includes all the relevant TRAC Physical Science and Mathematics activities. In this section
the learners can complete the activities by writing their observations, calculations, and conclusions in the
spaces provided in the workbook. The booklet also includes previous examination questions about the
relevant Physical Science topics. This enables the learners to prepare themselves for the final examination.
The TRAC workbook is a single,
comprehensive resource to aid the
learners in mastering Physical Science
in Grade 12.
The booklets were compiled, printed,
bound, and distributed from TRAC
head office at a cost of less than R40
per copy.
We have found this expense a
worthwhile investment of funds.
24TRAC Alumni
We are proud of our TRAC alumni group who are willing to plough back into their
communities, assisting during our TRAC vacation school programs.
Top left : Thabiso Dlamini (2017 - Lindile (Ermelo)). He is currently doing a diploma
in IT at TUT’s Emalahleni Campus. He motivated the TRAC students to work
hard. He also gave them insights into the life of a tertiary student.
Middle left : The young man wearing the cap is Macheba Morapa (2017 - Phala
(Blouberg)), assisting the learners. He is doing education studies at UL.
Bottom left : Pamela Hadebe (2017 - Masizakhe (Ermelo)), shared his study
tips. He is studying towards a BEng (Electrical Engineering) degree at WITS
University. He is currently in his second year.
Top right : Happiness Mkhwanazi (2017 - Kwa-Mahlobo (Soweto)), motivated the
TRAC learners. She is currently a second year BSc (Computer Science) student at
UCT. Her marks improved from 59% (Grade 10) to 85% (Grade 12).
Middle right : Mzwandile Fakude (2016 – Stanger Manor(KwaDukuza)), an MBChB
III student at Stellenbosch University, assisted the TRAC learners with vocational
guidance at the KwaDukuza Summer School in 2018.
Bottom right : Thato Matona (2017 – Kwa-Mahlobo (Soweto)), a BEng (Electric &
Electronic Engineering) II student at Stellenbosch University, shares his study tips
with the learners attending the program in Soweto.
2018 Summer School Assistance
25Stellenbosch University Welcome Letters
TRAC launched a TRAC@Maties 2019 project in March of 2018. The aim of this project was to motivate the Grade 12 learners to apply to Stellenbosch University as a tertiary
institution of choice. TRAC has built solid relationships with various parties within the institution, ensuring thereby that our students have a positive varsity experience, once
they get to campus. TRAC also established a beneficial partnership with the owners and management of the accredited private accommodation, NooitgedachtA. As
residence accommodation on the campus is in high demand, and cannot nearly cater for all the applicants to Stellenbosch University, the option of TRAC@Maties students
staying at NooitgedachtA is a feasible option. Fortunately NSFAS covers the accommodation cost of NooitgedachtA. As TRAC head office, and hence TRAC staff are
based on the campus, we are able to provide the TRAC students with much needed support and guidance during their tertiary studies.
In this vein, Debbey Olivier, wrote each provisionally accepted Stellenbosch University applicant a personalised welcoming letter. The letters were handed to the potential
Maties students by their respective TRAC Learning Facilitators. Eighty two percent of the learners who were provisionally accepted, were officially accepted on the basis of
their Grade 12 performance. One hundred and sixteen students decided to take up their tertiary studies at Stellenbosch University.
TRAC learners were excited to receive their TRAC@Maties welcoming letters. From left : Amanda Magwaza, Hloniphile Mlambo, Chumani Dyobela, Fumanikele Jack, Asemahle
Loliwe, Kamvalethu Hlathswayo, Thimna Booi, Solomon Makhubu, Lubabalo Spogter, Anomusa Magwa, and Akhona Busani. Only Fumanekile Jack is not studying at SU.
27TRAC@Maties FeedbackWhen I got introduced to the TRAC program I knew that it will take me far. I am now studying B of Nursing and Midwifery at Stellenbosch Tygerberg Campus. I am where I am all because of TRAC. I have never received such high level of care, support and guidance and I treat them as my family. Receiving their support and them seeing the potential in us (me) has propelled me to be the best that I can be. I am forever grateful to TRAC. I have gained companions and a family. I don't know what I would have done without TRAC. THANK YOU. Thimna Booi (Uitenhage)
TRAC het my gehelp om te wees waar ek vandag is. Nie net het die TRAC program gehelp dat ek my punte in matriekgoed kan hou nie. Hulle het ook gehelp met universiteitaansoeke. Ek was so angsbevange om my universiteit aansoekte doen omdat ek nie seker was hoe en wat om te doen nie. TRAC het my gehelp om daardie berg te oorkom en vandag is ek dolgelukkig by een van die beste universiteite - danksy die hulp van TRAC en sy mense. Nolene Coetzee (Bellville South)
Since I came to Stellenbosch University TRAC has always been there for me. At first I was scared. The feeling of staying in a place that is so far from home really scared me, but TRAC really helped me to find accommodation and offered all the help to make me feel more at home. I don't want to lie - in my life I have never imagined myself studying at Stellenbosch University, because I just felt like I did not have much resources to make it. But TRAC made it possible for me. Today I am proud to say that in my family I am the first one to actually go to varsity. Mapule Moshobane (Soweto)
Who would have thought a young girl like me would have such a bright future ahead of her? We're given the mind, the talent, but money has always been a problem. Applying to universities has always been a problem too. Not having access to sufficient internet, not having enough knowledge about courses and institutions. But my love for science introduced me to TRAC, which literally changed everything for me - I mean everything. TRAC introduced me to a different world. It took me from the bottom and is flying me to the TOP. SipheJordan (Cofimvaba)
I did my matric at Solomon Mahlangu High school last year. It is where I got a chance to be part of the distinguished program called TRAC. This program helped me a lot, to improve the attitude towards myself and also to improve my academic skills. I was not only happy being part of TRAC but to have a facilitator like Ms Molebeleli. She was devoted and committed to her work and making sure that we have the greatest future ever. Now I'm currently studying in one of the best universities - Stellenbosch University. I am doing a BA Humanities, majoring in Psychology and Sociology. AnomusaMagwa (Uitenhage)
It is really an honour to be one of the students who got the opportunity to study at Stellies and be part of TRAC@MatiesThere were times when I felt like nothing was gonna work out, but every time I staggered TRAC was there to lift me. I will forever be grateful. Amogelang Setlhare (Soweto)
If it wasn't for TRAC, I honestly would not have gotten into Stellenbosch University. The after school classes, summer, winter AND spring schools plus the amazing teachers all helped on my academic journey. I was not the greatest at physics or maths. Even though TRAC only gave physics classes, their inspiring talks & help helped me so much in other areas of school work. So all in all, TRAC helped me tremendously in acquiring my dream of becoming the first person in my family to go to university. Big ups to TRAC! May they help many more achieve their dreams & goals like they did with me. Cheron Rudolph (Bellville South)
I matriculated at Solomon Mahlangu High school last year. It is where I was found by the most prestigious program in South Africa "TRAC." I was really blessed and privileged to be a TRAC Learner. They are very caring and supportive in the program. My experience with the program thus far has been nothing but astonishing. I managed to grow academically and in self-esteem. It is through the program that I managed to achieve one of my goals. That is studying at one of the best universities in the Continent, STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY. I am currently studying BA humanities, majoring in Psychology and Sociology. This is not the end but the beginning of many great things to come for me. Lubabalo Spogter (Uitenhage)
TRAC has been a lot of help for me since grade 11 – not only in physical science but has helped me to go to university. When I first came to Stellebosch I knew nothing about the university system. TRAC assisted me in the first days until now still assisting me with some of the things that I don't still understand how they work. Trac had made it easier for me because Trac is always there when I don't have a solution to a problem. Not forgetting the friendly face that Ms Debby has, positive attitude when ever you need anything she is there to help.Trac has made my journey so good and I really appreciate it maybe if I wasn't aware of Trac I wouldn't be here today. Kamvalethu Hlatshwayo (Uitenhage)
28Full Marks for Physical ScienceEvashen Pillay (left), was placed first in the Ilembe district and
eighth in KZN with seven distinctions, and was awarded a
special award for physical science having achieved 100%.
Anna Musandiwa (right), from IR Lesolang, obtained 100% in
Physical Science, and was placed in the top position in Gauteng
Province. She was interviewed on SABC news on the 4th of
January 2019.
Point School Name
Gr 1
0G
r 11
Gr 1
2 Tertiary Institution Course
Secunda Kiriyatswane Simelane, Smangaliso 44 81 100 WITS BSc (Chemical Engineering)
KwaDukuza Stanger Manor Pillay, Evashen 99 98 100 UKZN MBChB
Soshanguve IR Lesolang Musandiwa, Annah 80 89 100 SU MBChB
Soweto Letsibogo Mabuza, Zandile 75 76 100 SU BSc (Chemistry)
Soweto St Martin Motsie, Keketso 84 94 100 UP BEng (Computer Engineering)
Soweto St Martin Tefu, Clara 91 97 100 UCT BCom (Actuarial Science)
Clara Tefu (below), with Mr. Lesufi
(MEC Education – Gauteng)
Zandile Mabuza (below),
with her provincial award
29TRAC RecognitionThe KwaDukuza-based TRAC Facilitator, Mr. Emmanuel Zvenyika, received an
award from Stanger Manor Secondary School at their 2018 Awards Ceremony.
It was an acknowledgement of the role the TRAC intervention played in
assisting the school to obtain one of the best Physical Science pass rates, 98.3%,
in the Ilembe district. A total of 11 A- and 12 B-symbols were recorded from the
class of 60 learners. The average percentage of this class was 61%.
Mr Zvenyika receiving the award from Mr Gounden, principal of Stanger Manor
Secondary School
30TRAC Partnership – Murray & Roberts
TRAC is proud to have been in partnership with Murray
& Roberts since 2001. TRAC featured in both the
Group Sustainability Report and the Community
Development Programme Annual Report 2018.
32
From meeting during the TRAC vacation school in 2012, to graduating as doctors in December of 2018.
TRAC congratulates Dr. Devon Fortuin & Dr. Mzomhle Kiza!
33
Fathima Esak completed grade 12 in 2012 at Malibu High School. In
2013 she completed the Exposure Year from Anglo Platinum. She
also gave a number of speeches on various plat-forms as one of
the ambassadors of TRAC, especially in the Western Cape. After
grade 12 she went on to commence with her Bachelor of Science
in Chemical Engineering studies at the University of Cape Town. She
received a full bursary from Anglo Platinum through the facilitation
of TRAC.
In the 2015 TRAC annual report, she writes: “I am now a third year
chemical engineering student at the University of Cape Town. I am
still on an Anglo American Platinum bursary which I had received
through the facilitation of TRAC. For my second year of chemical
engineering, 2015, I was on the dean’s merit list. My personal goal is
to develop myself so that I may be able to impact society in a
positive manner using my chemical engineering skills.”
I am currently working for Anglo American. I am on the BLAST
program. BLAST is an accelerated leadership program. My current
role is at the Johannesburg head office where I offer technical and
project support to all of Anglo American’s operations.
20122018
34
Themba, a 2013 Grade 12 learner at Phaphamani,
has qualified with a BEng in Mining Engineering from
Wits University. The TRAC Learning Facilitator, Mr.
Precious Ncube, took on the role of Themba’s
guardian and assisted Themba to be enrolled at Wits
University. He also supported him to apply for a
bursary at Glencore. Themba is now employed at
Glencore as a mining engineer. Themba attended
the winter vacation school, held at Phaphamani
Secondary School in July of 2018, to motivate the
learners.
“Utilise each and every opportunity that is there. It is
possible. If I could do it, then you can do it. If they
could help me, then it means they are going to help
you.” ~ Themba Zwane during a video interview with
TRAC, in 2014.
Themba ZwaneBEng (Mine Engineering)
Amos Shawa graduated from Wits with a BEd (Mathematics & Physical Science)
degree. Amos stayed with his grandmother in Delmas and had not known his
father since birth. Mr. Ncube met Amos when he was in grade 10 at Mafa Max in
2012 - the year when TRAC operations started in Delmas. Amos was a weak
performing learner who would score between 0 and 20% for Physical Sciences.
Amos’s marks improved steadily until he passed grade 12 with a Bachelors
pass. The TRAC Learning Facilitator assisted Amos to apply at Wits as well as for a
Funza Lushaka bursary. Amos always assisted during the winter and summer schools
in Delmas. Mr. Shawa has been appointed as a Physical Science educator at
Phaphamani in Delmas.
Seipati Ratsaka, a classmate of Amos at Mafa Max, graduated with him. Seipati
went through a rough time when her mother passed away during her first year at
Wits University. The TRAC Learning Facilitator continued to encourage her, and
she finally passed her degree in education. She was also a voluntary educator
during the Delmas winter and summer school programs. Miss Ratsaka has been
appointed as a Life Sciences educator at her alma mater.
Amos Shawa & Seipati RasakaB Education
35
Monique Malgas matriculated from Cravenby in 2015. Nicole Carolus finished her high
school career in 2018 at Malibu High School. Both these learners were assisted by TRAC
to apply for the Amathuba Learnership presented by Old Mutual.
Melaney Cromhout, Old Mutual Learning and Development Manager, sent us this
email regarding Monique Malgas and Nicole Carolus:
“Post matric, Nicole Carolus was selected from 450 learners who applied for the Old
Mutual 2019 Amathuba Learnership Programme. It was through the TRAC intervention
that she was assisted to apply for this opportunity. The Amathuba Learnership
programme will enable Nicole to study towards a Wealth Management NQF Level 4
qualification which is FSP recognised, whilst gaining work experience in Old Mutual.
Monique Malgas, who joined the Old Mutual 2017 Amathuba Learnership Program
through a TRAC intervention, has furthered her studies whilst working at Old
Mutual. She has successfully completed the Wealth Management Level 4 qualification
as well as the Supply Chain Management Level 5 qualification. This year she started
the Old Mutual Wealth Management Level 5. Monique has now worked for 2 years at
Old Mutual and is busy with her 3rd qualification. Monique entered the corporate
world as an inexperienced young lady, and has grown not only from an academic
perspective, but she has also gained work experience and has become a mature
professional in one of the top Financial Services Companies.”
From left to right: Monique Malgas, Basil Johnson (Old Mutual Learnership
Specialist), Nicole Carolus
36
“My name is Wayde Winston Francis. I am 19 years old and I live in Kraaifontein - Cape
Town. I attended Northpine Technical High School where my journey with TRAC started in
the 11th grade. Taking me in, molding me academically, assisting me to pass my NSC
exams and guiding me towards a progressive successful career at my preferred institution-
Stellenbosch University where I am currently studying BEng in Mechatronics. TRAC also
helped me obtain a bursary from Industrial Development Corporation.
This is what TRAC inspires in all their students across the country. TRAC goes the extra mile to
ensure a brighter future for their learners. As previously mentioned, they were the extra
support structure towards my success story. TRAC ensured that life on campus was made
more comfortable and less stressful throughout my first year at Stellenbosch. This shows that
the communication and support TRAC offers their students is never ending, it goes beyond
high school.
From the check-ins to the various social engaging events and motivation just before exams,
TRAC always ensures that their students feel more comfortable knowing that support is
available.
The motivation and on-going support (not only from the facilitators but fellow peers) helped
me to be successful as a first year student at Stellenbosch (passing with flying colours).
Their positivity and efforts are much appreciated by each and every learner who is proudly
part of this organization that strives towards success and eradicating poverty. “
EDP Results:7 Distinctions - 79.8% Average
37
“I was born into a family where none of my immediate family members pursued
studies beyond Gr12. I therefore did not have knowledge on how to do any
University application. I always dreamt of myself as a mechanical engineer and my
biggest dream was to study at Stellenbosch University. In my grade 12 year,
attending Groutville Secondary School in KwaZulu-Natal, my TRAC facilitator
assisted me with all my University applications including the bursary applications. I
got accepted to all 5 universities I had applied to and Stellenbosch was one of
them. I also received a bursary from Avon Peaking Power administered by Study
Trust and also the NSFAS bursary. This was a dream come true for me. Transport fare
to Stellenbosch was a challenge and TRAC paid for my travel expenses to
Stellenbosch. I am very thankful to TRAC because they didn't only make the
application process possible but they showed me the importance of education
and the results of hard work .”
Gr10 : 63% – Gr11 : 73% – Gr12 : 81%
Above: Andiswa and SibongiseniNhleko receiving their
TRAC@Maties letters (Sibongiseni is also studying at Stellenbosch
University, doing a BSc degree in Food Science)
Right: Andiswa is a resident of the ladies residence, Nerina, at
Stellenbosch University
38
Gr11 : 59% - Gr12 : 85%
“I am Phumezile Tsitsa, one of TRAC beneficiaries from Bardale Secondary School in Mfuleni, Cape Town. I
joined the TRAC programme during my matric year with a mark of 59% in Physical Sciences. Throughout the
year TRAC was very supportive and helpful towards my studies. TRAC facilitator organised extra classes at our
School every Tuesday. That gave us more learning time and enabled me to understand the concepts
better. During winter and spring holidays TRAC organised combined classes with learners from different
schools. I also met another TRAC facilitator who was as kind and approachable as our own facilitator Mr.
Tafirei.
I met learners from different schools and that motivated me in such a way that I started working hard to reach
my full potential. TRAC also assisted me with applications to higher education institutions and NSFAS. As I
speak, my final year Physical Science mark improved to 85% and I will be pursuing a career in BSc in Computer
Science at UCT. I am glad that I met TRAC before I finished my Matric because TRAC helped me by leading
me to the direction of my dream.
I am very thankful to TRAC for investing a lot of money on our studies. I am looking forward to working hard
and improving the lives of my family in future.”
39Mehdi SalmanB Pharmacy - University of the Western Cape
“At first I was sceptical about TRAC. I was not 100% sure about what TRAC stood for, but as the great phrase says "Actions speak louder
than words”, and that's precisely what happened. When I met Mr Emmanuel Zvenyika, I was so impressed by his kindness and his
willingness to help me as well as my peers. As time passed, I realized that this is what TRAC stood for, it aimed to empower and feed those
with the hunger to learn. I wrote many TRAC progress tests at school, of course there were tests where I didn't do too well, but TRAC helped
me in learning from my mistakes. After a lot of practice and guidance from my educators as well as Mr Emmanuel Zvenyika from TRAC, I
managed to achieve my dream of obtaining a distinction in Physical Sciences. I am currently studying towards a degree in Pharmacy at
University of the Western Cape, I would like to thank TRAC for making my dreams a reality.”
Gr10 : 56% - Gr11 : 70% - Gr12 : 84%
Kiara NarrandesBEng (Civil) - University of KwaZulu Natal
Gr10 : 53% - Gr11 : 62% - Gr12 : 82%“When I started studying Physical Sciences in Grade 10, I was not coping and my marks were very low. In grade 11 we were introduced to
TRAC. Mr. Emmanuel Zvenyika, our TRAC facilitator. He visited our school, Stanger Manor Secondary School, every Monday to assist us. This
was a great help and my marks gradually increased. At the end of Grade 11, TRAC conducted a Summer School for us that prepared us
for grade 12. TRAC provided us with booklets and revision materials that really assisted us. In Grade 12 my mark improved from a 62%
straight to an 80%+. I passed matric and got an A for Physical Science. Mr. Zvenyika imparted confidence in me to do well, not just in
Physical Sciences, but in my other subjects too. This year I will be studying the BEng in Civil Engineering at the University of KwaZulu Natal
(Howard Campus). If it wasn't for TRAC I would not have been where I am today. My heartfelt thanks goes to TRAC and to Mr. Zvenyika.”
40
Gr10 : 41% - Gr11 : 61% - Gr12 : 85%
“My name is Ngemntu Zuko from Sinako High School in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. First of all I
would like to thank TRAC for everything they have done for me. During My grade 10 year I
didn't care much about my school work and I obtained 41% in Physical science. During my
grade 11 year I tried to change but it was a slow progress. Well, the turning point of my life
started when I attended TRAC summer school in Manzomthombo in November 2017. The
classes were preparing us for our upcoming matric year. Summer school classes really helped
me because I managed to get 94% during first term of my Matric. TRAC’s facilitator, Mr Godwin
Tafirei, helped us to apply to Stellenbosch University and other universities. At the end of term 3
we attended Spring classes at Malibu where we were drilled on how to approach and answer
examination questions. When NSFAS opened for applications, I was prepared because I
already knew the documents that were required. Mr. Tafirei helped the whole class to apply
for NSFAS. When it was time to write examinations my mind was at ease, I had nothing to
worry about because everything was taken care of. Finally I obtained a distinction in Physical
Science and I am currently studying towards BSc in Mechatronics at the University of Cape
Town. I'm thankful to TRAC for all they did for me and other learners.”
41
Gr10 : 36%Gr11 : 70%Gr12 : 71%
“My name is Mthembu Sipho, the second born in a family of seven children. I live with my mother who is a single
parent and we depend on a social grant.
TRAC SA helped me in improving my Physical Sciences marks from 36% in grade 10 to 71% in grade 12. This was
possible because of the introduction of Mr. Moses Chikati, a TRAC learning facilitator that any learner would wish to
be taught by. Mr. Chikati helped me a lot in Physical Sciences, especially in grade 12. I became a better student
who mastered Physical Sciences concepts because of the summer school, an extra teaching programme
organised by Mr. Chikati. Mr. Chikati taught us Vertical Projectile Motion, Momentum, Impulse, Mechanics, Work,
energy and power, Electrostatics, Organic Chemistry and Electricity. I always struggled with the topic on Electricity,
but Mr. Chikati simplified this topic for me. He made Electricity very easy and that gave me the confidence to solve
related questions. TRAC SA performed practicals with us every Thursday. The experiments and practical
assignments were administered in our school laboratory. This exposed us to hands on approach to Physical
Sciences that enhanced our understanding of the subject.
I would like to thank TRAC SA as not every learner was privileged to receive your services in other schools as we
were at St Martin De Porres High School were. Thank you for assisting me to refocus and giving me direction.
I applied for several bursaries in 2018, including NSFAS, in preparation for my tertiary study fund for 2019. After
providing all the required documentation TRAC completed the bursary applications on my behalf. Thank you for
your selfless commitment to the learners.
I am happy to inform you that, because of TRAC, I am currently a BSc. in Computer Science student at the
University of Johannesburg. I hope generations to come will continue to benefit from your services.”
42
Gr 11 : 66% Gr 12 : 92%
“I am from a poor background where I am supported by my grandmother as my mom passed on in 2002 and I never got to know about
my father. My grandmother, who depends on a SASSA grant, supports me and my cousin (same age as myself) who also lost her mom in
2006. Because of these circumstances I made it a point to myself that I would try to always give my best towards my education. I believe
that it is only through this my education that my entire family will get free from poverty.
It was in grade 11 that I really struggled with my sciences until late November when TRAC introduced the Summer School to us. The
program was so productive that it entirely changed my perception towards the subject. It was made very easy and this also had a huge
influence on the other subjects I did as well. Because of my changed perception, I got so motivated and fell in love with my books such
that I started doing my grade 12 work during the entire December holiday. And this helped me so much because during the first week I
could not attend school because my grandmother did not have the money to get me to school on time, I even had to move from home
to live closer to the school. But the fact that I'm from a poor background never inhibited my growth as a person, it instead grew me and
gave me more reason to work hard. At times last year I would have to get assistance from my teachers for money for rent and food when
my grandmother was not able to provide for me. At times my friends would help me with clothing and even lend me their cell phones
when I had to travel like when I went to East London for the TRAC-Eskom launch.
With the assistance of TRAC, I was able to have an opportunity to apply for tertiary studies as well as receive NSFAS funding. In addition,
TRAC assisted me to attend a fully paid for Morshal camp which was in KwaZulu Natal. Because of all that, things worked out in the end
and even though I was not able to register for my dream career last year, which was to become a doctor, doing pharmacy gives me the
opportunity to switch courses next year, which is what I will do.
At home I'm the first child to get to and even pass matric, let alone go to university, and it is because of this that I will keep working hard to
make things better at home in the near future because my entire family is really counting on me.”
43
Gr10 : 45% - Gr11 : 56% - Gr12 : 83%“My name is Nkanyezi Mkhwanazi and I'm currently a student at Stellenbosch University. When I started doing
grade 11 in 2017, I was really scared, because there was a lot of work to be covered and our Physical Sciences
teacher was not really supportive because he would sometimes not come to class.
Mr. Georg Passler, our TRAC facilitator, visited our school, Dlangezwa High School, every Friday and helped us to
not fall behind with the work. He would make himself available to us during the weekends. He insisted on doing
extra classes. Some of my fellow students tried to dodge those classes, oblivious to the fact that Mr Passler was only
trying to prepare us for the future.
During my grade 12 year I became really anxious because I had not applied at any university. That's where Mr.
Passler rescued all of us by bringing us the CAO application forms and explained to us how the CAO system works.
Mr. Passler also assisted us with the NSFAS bursary scheme applications since most of the learners at my school
came from families that were financially challenged. He tried his best to ensure that the majority of the learners
had applied for NSFAS.
At the end of the year I managed to obtain 3 distinctions with Physical sciences being one of them. Actually there
was a huge number of learners at my school who passed physical sciences very well. Mr. Passler and the TRAC
team still continue to support us even though he does not reach us anymore. There is one thing amongst other
things that Mr. Passler taught me that I will never forget, that hard work, dedication and perseverance really pays.”
44
Gr 11 : 68% - Gr 12 : 80%
“I am Bevile Mbozani, from Port St Johns, I was at Gcinumthetho Senior Secondary School. I come from a poor family, we
are five living with our mother only within a four roomed house. For me it was difficult to read my books at home because of
the space, so I used to learn more when I was at school and the high school was about 5km far from home. From grade 10
up to grade 12, I was walking that 5 kilometres to school and 5 kilometres back from school. It was only in March of my
grade 12 year that I rented a room closer to the school.
At home, I was just doing my homework and learning when I was left alone. I may say I am a very hardworking person
because I was not necessarily clever at school but I did not want to just pass I wanted to do wonders and of course to
change the condition at home. So when TRAC was first introduced to us in 2017 I hoped we will do better on Physical
Science since our teacher had never taught physics before. TRAC motivated me during the Summer School where I saw
other learners of the same age as me doing Physical Science and I said if there are other learners who can pass Physical
Science why not me. From then on I worked like a slave on my books because it motivated me not only on Physical
Science but all my subject and in grade 12 I was the best in my class. All in all TRAC inspired me to do better because it
made me realize that it's not about where you come from but it's about what can u do now so my background did not
drag me down instead of pushing me up. Now I am at Walter Sisulu University doing electrical engineering main stream,
funded by NSFAS, all thanks to TRAC.”
45
Gr10 : 56% - Gr11 : 73% - Gr12 : 91%
“My name is Nkateko Maluleka and I am a former learner at Letsibogo Girls High School.
TRAC played an important role in my academic life. With the help of Mr Chikati and the rest of the
team I managed to achieve a distinction in Physical Sciences in grade 12 final examinations. I
improved my Physical Sciences marks from 56% in grade 10 to 91% in grade 12 with the assistance of
TRAC.
TRAC helped me to apply for at different tertiary institutions. TRAC also assisted me to apply for a
number of bursaries including NSFAS. TRAC Summer and winter schools that were organised by Mr
Chikati helped us to understand concepts better. TRAC was very helpful with experiments and
investigations and this enabled us to understand difficult concepts in Physical Sciences.
I am very grateful for everything that TRAC did for me and I pray that TRAC continues doing the
same for the other learners.
I am now at the University of Cape Town doing my first year in Civil Engineering.
Thank you TRAC and Mr Chikati for the support you gave me academically.”
46
Gr 11 : 65% - Gr 12 : 92%“My journey with TRAC started in December 2017, when I and a few other learners who were good at Math and Physical Sciences at my
previous school, Cofimvaba S.S.S were handpicked based on our ability to do well in both Math and Physical sciences. We attended a
camp for roughly two weeks in December where we were prepared for matric level Physics. This was a very enriching experience for all
of us which we were all extremely grateful for in the end, to an extent that we started to wish that it would not end.
I did my matric at a small school called Cofimvaba S.S.S in the Eastern Cape. TRAC was key to ensuring our schools success as we
suffered a lot due to a lack of enough resources and a lack of teachers when it came to Physical Sciences. TRAC helped us by
providing us with a teacher who goes by the name of Mr. Edwin Madzinga. Not only did we get help in Physical Sciences, but he also
helped to secure our academic futures by helping us to apply for university and for bursary opportunities. In the end with the help of
TRAC, my mother and my teachers, not forgetting my principal, I passed my matric with 6 distinctions and a 92% for Physical Science,
this also includes the opportunity to study at Stellenbosch University and I am extremely grateful for that.
I come from a family of 3 children, I have an elder sister doing her 3rd and final year at university (funded by NSFAS) and a younger
brother doing grade 9, all of us sustained by a single mother who earns a low income working as a field marketer. We are all dependent
on my mother's income for survival. Our financial situation has been my greatest obstacle since it meant I could not attend university but
the challenge is one I accepted and I got help to try and combat that challenge through bursary and financial aid applications.
I am currently enrolled at Stellenbosch University and TRAC is still assisting me and the other students who are part of the program to
settle in at university, and to make the most out of the opportunity to be at university.”
47
Gr10 : 53% - Gr11 : 51% - Gr12 : 86%TRAC SA made a very huge impact in my life and also my studies. It changed my perspective towards
Physical Sciences into something very good and positive.
At first I disliked Physical Sciences a lot but through attending the TRAC lessons and practicals, Physical
Sciences became my favourite subject. At the beginning of grade 12 at Letsibogo Girls’ Secondary School
I had no idea that I was supposed to apply for universities early in the year but with the help of Mr. Moses
Chikati along with his patience, I am now studying at the University of Free State. I am studying Forensic
Science, a course with a bearing of Physical Sciences which I am no longer afraid of or hate. I live with my
mother who is a single parent. It was going to be a challenge for her paying for my tertiary studies as a
single parent. Mr. Chikati helped me with NSFAS bursary application. Right now NSFAS is funding my
studies.
Mr. Chikati organised extra lessons in Physical Sciences. These extra lessons helped me especially in
Organic Chemistry where I had a serious challenges. Mr. Chikati also conducted vacation classes during
the school holidays. Overall TRAC and Mr. Chikati really helped me and I appreciate it. My rocket
excellence in Physical Sciences from grades 10 to 12 is as follows: Grade 10, 11 and 12 marks are 54%, 51%
and finally 86% respectively. This is awesome to me. Thank you TRAC SA…!!!”
48
Gr 10 : 44% - Gr 11 : 67% - Gr 12 : 73%“I am Sisipho Kwanele Bottoman from Humansdorp, I am 18 years old and I am the last of four kids at home and I am the
first to go to university all thanks to TRAC SA and my school Lungiso High School. My journey was not easy, it was hard. In
grade 10 I wanted to quit Maths and Science, I was ready to give up on my dreams because it was hard for me to
understand Maths and Science especially Physical Sciences because my school did not have science equipment for us
to do practicals.
TRAC SA was introduced, they provided science equipment for us to do practicals and I started to understand the theory
side better and I saw my marks improving. TRAC SA conducted summer and winter school for us and more extra classes.
Seeing that they believed in us I too went the extra mile and studied till late at night because I did not want to disappoint
the people who invested their time in us. Mrs. Carla Muller, our TRAC teacher helped us a lot, she helped us to apply to
universities and giving us information on what are the options for us and sometimes she would talk with us about life and
everything that is bothering us. She is a great teacher.
I passed matric with 57% for Mathematics and 73% for Physical Sciences all thanks to TRAC SA for helping us and I am
very grateful for that. I study at Nelson Mandela University, currently doing Higher Certificate in Mechatronics and next
year I will enrol for BEngTech in Mechatronics. Through the assistance of TRAC I was able to received NSFAS funding as
well as the Kouga Windfarm bursary.
I am very happy and grateful that TRAC SA believed in us that we can be somethings in life and gave us the
opportunities to see and work towards those things. I thank TRAC SA you are really improving lives!” Kwanele preparing a Standard Solution of a Base
49
Gr 11 : 60% - Gr 12 : 75% “Throughout my high school life I had to work extra hard. I did not have adequate resources. I
would have to find study material online because I did not have enough textbooks. Neither could
my family afford them as we survived on social grant and pension. I must say I felt so much
pressure; I wanted to get out of poverty so hard. So I kept pushing and pushing and my marks got
better as terms went by. For grade 11 finals I got level 5s for Maths and Physics but was still not
satisfied. So at the beginning of grade 12 I had a goal of gaining an extra 5% per term and with
the help of Mrs Molebeleli from TRAC, I achieved that. For matric finals I got way better marks that
landed me with 12 university offers. It was also with the help of TRAC that I applied on time and I
am now studying for a BSc in Biological Sciences at Wits.
This is actually the beginning, I am still going to work hard so I can be a psychiatrist as those kind of
specialists are few in SA. TRAC was my lifesaver. Before TRAC came to my school I had literally
never done science practicals due to my school not having adequate and proper apparatus.
Doing these practicals made Physical Sciences easier to understand. Mrs. Molebeleli also helped
us with tertiary studies applications. She even went beyond her working hours to make sure we
pass matric and proceed with our education. She made sure that we applied to as many
institutions as we could and we followed up on them.
Judging by how my future is looking like because of your help, TRAC is indeed all about
eradicating poverty.”
50
Gr 11 : 45% Gr 12 : 68%
“I am the second child of my parents. My father is a factory worker and is not well paid. I did not have money to study
in Model C schools, so I settled for public schools. In 2017 I realised that my situation does not have any impact on me
when TRAC intervened in my life. TRAC played a large role in what I am now. Ms. Molebeleli, who is a TRAC facilitator
at my school, helped me and my classmates a lot in 2017and 2018. She helped us in practicals for Physical Sciences
and applying for opportunities such as bursaries, university and college applications. TRAC helped me succeed
academically by supporting and leading me on the road to success. TRAC helped me better my skills in Physical
Science and my results became better. TRAC also did theory, not just practical. We did all the chapters which helped
a lot because if you did not hear it in class then surely you will hear it in the TRAC class. Ms. Molebeleli really did a
great job because if she were not there for me or TRAC was not there then surely I would not be where I am today. I
did not cope well with Physical Science and lucky for me TRAC was there to help and rescue me. Ms. Molebeleli also
helped me understand the true meaning and value of education and she gave me the will to study hard and
achieve big. To me TRAC was there when I needed help and that means a lot to me.
The Summer School also helped because there we were taught the first term grade 12 work which gave us a kick-start
of how grade 12 is. We started grade 12 when schools opened already ahead of the syllabus. I passed with a
bachelor pass having one distinction and level 5 in Physical Science which is great and proves that TRAC really
helped because I used to have level 2 or 3 only in Physical Science. Now I am at the University of Fort Hare doing a
Bachelor of Science degree. I am grateful to Ms. Molebeleli for helping me, guiding me and supporting me and my
classmates. It was surely an honour to meet such a great and wonderful person, she was like a second mother, a
parent to me. And I would like to also thank TRAC for giving me such an experience, it was truly a privilege to be part
of the TRAC students. “
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